The aims of a nationwide German arthroplasty registry are to contribute to continuous design improvement of implants by monitoring their long-term performance, to inform the public of the quality of the components used, and to form a database for further research in the field of epidemiology or the development of new devices and patient care concepts. A registry can in this way serve as an addition to the existing vigilance system and can help to further minimize risks for patients with respect to design weakness or inferiority. As a contribution to the safety of patient care, the establishment of a German arthroplasty registry is welcomed.

In general, improvements in implant design during the past decade have increased the level of protection of health and safety of hip and knee joint replacement devices. Nevertheless, our data suggest that there is still a certain amount of design problems contributing to implant failure. By increasing the number of reports, users could help to enhance the safety of these devices.

Autologous ear cartilage is relatively easy to procure in suitable form and sufficient quantity. At the donor site, there are, as a rule, no complications to be expected. Autologous ear cartilage without conjunctival coverage is of good use for replacing and lengthening the inner layer of an eyelid, not only to reconstruct large eyelid-defects, but also to give additional support and length. The cartilage graft will grow on well, provided the wound is well vascularized. This must not be expected with scarring or poor blood perfusion. The brittleness of the cartilage demands an adapted technique. Precautions to protect the cornea and to prevent adhesions in the fornix are to be taken.

The purpose of this study was to address the experience gained from the risk assessment of incident reports associated with the use of dermal filler materials. In total, 136 incident reports were registered between January 1, 2000, and September 30, 2005. A retrospective survey of all reports was conducted. 143 patients were concerned; the symptom most frequently reported was the formation of nodules (n = 89). The majority of cases resulted in either conservative or surgical treatment (n = 93). In 4 cases the implementation of corrective action with respect to the medical device became necessary. As a result of the severity or the incidence of undesired effects of wrinkle correction deficiencies of the products involved may become obvious. Thus, following German medical device legislation, the criteria for an incident to be reported may be met.

The education of medical professionals is divided into medical studies, postgraduate training leading to the qualification as a specialist, and continuing professional development. During education, all scientific knowledge and practical skills are to be acquired, which enable the physician to practice responsibly in a specialized medical area. In the present article, relevant curricula are analyzed regarding the consideration of medical device-related topics, as the clinical application of medical technology has reached a central position in modern patient care. Due to the enormous scientific and technical progress, this area has become as important as pharmacotherapy. Our evaluation shows that medical device-related topics are currently underrepresented in the course of medical education and training and should be given greater consideration in all areas of medical education. Possible solutions are presented.